Sony India announced the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II – a premium lens offering a supreme
blend of high resolution and stunning bokeh with fast autofocus (AF) in a compact body. This is a
second-generation lens that inherits the optical design that achieved a high-level fusion of bokeh
and resolution that was highly praised in the first-generation model, and generously incorporates
the latest technology. When paired with the latest Sony’s Alpha series cameras, it is an ideal option
for a wide variety of creative uses in both photography and videography, including portraiture,
wedding, travel, and cinematic video.
The advanced and refined optical design and elements of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II brings together
appealing bokeh and enhanced high resolution, making it ideal for portrait photography. Packed
with two XA (extreme aspherical) and two ED (extra-low dispersion) lenses, the state-of-the-art
optical design effectively suppresses aberrations. This combination offers corner-to-corner
resolution and rendering, resulting in outstanding image quality. Moreover, Sony’s original Nano AR
Coating II technology effectively subdues flare and ghosting for clear, crisp images. The 11-blade
circular aperture and optimization of spherical aberration during the design and manufacturing
process provide the beautiful, soft bokeh that is the hallmark of G Master lenses.
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II’s AF is agile, maximizing the speed advantage of advanced camera bodies.
For stills, it is up to three times faster compared to the previous model, tracking moving subjects
with high precision. It keeps up flawlessly with the Alpha 9 III’s 120fps continuous shooting, and
subject tracking performance is improved by as much as 7 times.
Compared to the current 85mm F1.4 GM1, the weight of the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II (642 grams) is approximately 20% lighter and 13% smaller in volume, which is achieved through the latest mechanical technology and optical design. The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II has a filter diameter of φ77 mm, diameter of 84.7 mm and length of 107.3 mm.
For smooth movie creation at F1.4, the FE 85mm F1.4 GM II has an XD linear motor. Focus breathing
is minimal, and in-body focus breathing compensation is supported. It has two customizable focus
hold buttons and an AF/MF switch offer flexible operability, while an independent aperture ring and
Linear Response MF focus control provide the kind of intuitive control that creative shooting
demands.
The front lens element features a fluorine coating, which makes it easy to remove fingerprints, dust,
oil, and other contaminants from the lens surface. The dust and moisture resistant design provides
extra reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditions.
The FE 85mm F1.4 GM II will be available across all Sony Centers, Alpha Flagship stores, Sony
authorized dealers, ecommerce websites (Amazon and Flipkart) and major electronic stores across
India from 6th September 2024 onwards at a price of ₹ 180,990.
Author Archives: Anirudh Iyer
September 2024
Asian Photography India September 2024 issue is out now!
Cover by: Claire Thomas📷
In this issue read:
~ Lens of Courage – Claire Thomas
~ Balancing Truth and Creativity in Photojournalism
~ Getting Your Work Published: How to pitch your photos to media outlets
~ How to Become a War Photographer
~ OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Review
~ Nu Republic Cybotron Spin Review
FUJIFILM India launches the FUJIFILM X-T50 at ₹1,49,999
FUJIFILM India has unveiled the X-T50, the latest addition to its X series of mirrorless digital cameras. Priced at ₹1,49,999 for the body, the X-T50 combines exceptional image quality with a compact, lightweight design, targeting both photography enthusiasts and professionals.
The X-T50 is equipped with a new 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and the X-Processor 5, ensuring high-resolution images and advanced performance. Despite its powerful capabilities, the camera is lightweight, weighing only 438 grams, making it a convenient option for photographers on the go.
A major highlight of the X-T50 is its 5-axis in-body image stabilization, offering up to 7 stops of stabilization. This feature enables steady handheld shooting even in low-light conditions. The camera also supports 6.2K/30P video recording with tracking autofocus, catering to both still photography and video recording needs.
The X-T50 also introduces a Film Simulation dial on the top plate, a new feature that allows users to switch between 20 different Film Simulation modes, including the newly added “REALA ACE.” This mode offers faithful colour reproduction and smooth tonal gradations, enhancing the creative potential for both stills and videos.
The X-T50’s AI-based autofocus system can detect a wide range of subjects, including animals, birds, vehicles, and drones. An advanced AF prediction algorithm further improves the camera’s ability to track fast-moving subjects, ensuring precise focus in dynamic shooting scenarios.
The FUJIFILM X-T50 is now available for purchase from all online and retail outlets.
Sony India launches ZV-E10 II camera at ₹94,990
Sony India has launched the ZV-E10 II, the successor to its popular ZV-E10 camera, aimed at content creators, vloggers, and photographers. The new model retains the beloved features of its predecessor, such as Creative Looks, Product Showcase Setting, Background Defocus, and a vari-angle flip screen, while introducing enhancements that make it even more sophisticated and user-friendly.
The ZV-E10 II is equipped with a new 26-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor and Sony’s latest BIONZ XR image processing engine, delivering improved image quality and performance. Notable upgrades include advanced autofocus capabilities, a Cinematic Vlog Setting for easy cinematic video creation, and a new vertical format user interface (UI) for streamlined content creation in vertical orientation.
Weighing approximately 377 grams, the camera remains compact and lightweight, making it ideal for on-the-go creators. Additionally, the ZV-E10 II offers enhanced connectivity options, including easy live streaming and data transfer, supported by a USB 3.2 Type-C port and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity.
The ZV-E10 II introduces new tools to elevate content creation, including the Cinematic Vlog Setting, which adjusts aspect ratio, frame rate, and autofocus settings for cinematic video capture. Users can also choose from ten Creative Look options and customize them with eight parameters, saving up to six personalized styles for quick access.
For photographers and videographers, the camera offers 759-point Focal Plane Phase-detection autofocus with Real-time Eye AF for humans, animals, and birds, and Real-time Tracking. It supports high-speed 4K video recording with 5.6K oversampling and advanced image stabilization, ensuring smooth, high-quality footage.
Sony has also focused on sustainability with the ZV-E10 II. The camera body is made from recycled materials, including SORPLAS, and the packaging uses Sony’s eco-friendly “Original Blended Material.” This aligns with Sony’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
Alongside the camera, Sony is launching the E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS II lens, available separately or as part of a lens kit. The lens features improved autofocus and video performance, making it an ideal companion for the ZV-E10 II.
The ZV-E10 II camera and lens kit will be available from August 27, 2024, at Sony Centers, Alpha Flagship stores, and online platforms. The camera body is priced at ₹94,990, with the lens kit pricing to be announced later.
Sony is offering special promotions, including an extended 3-year warranty, a complimentary SD card, and a carry bag, along with easy financing options.